Amazon Prime Day Shatters Online Sales Records

Shoppers in the U.S. spent a record $14.2 billion during Amazon's 48-hour Prime Day event. The sales event has also spurred other retailers like Walmart and Target to offer deals. Back-to-school shopping significantly contributed to the spike in sales, with electronics and school supplies seeing the highest demand.

Shoppers in the United States spent a record $14.2 billion online during the 48-hour Amazon Prime Day event, according to a report from Adobe Analytics released on Thursday.

The Amazon sales event prompted competing retailers such as Walmart and Target to launch their own deals to attract customers seeking steep discounts. Traditionally a slower period for retailers, July has transformed into a key shopping season due to the event, particularly for back-to-school items like clothing, electronics, and supplies.

This year's back-to-school shopping season began about two days earlier than usual as retailers nationwide offered discounts to compete with Amazon. Total online sales rose by 11% on July 16 and 17 compared to the two-day period in 2022, reaching $14.2 billion, per Adobe.

Sales during the event were driven largely by back-to-school shopping, with related spending increasing by 216% compared to daily sales in June 2024. Electronics purchases also saw a significant rise, up 61% across retailers, fueled by consumer demand for upgraded devices and new technology.

Amazon reported record sales for this year's Prime Day, with more items sold than in any previous year. Prime members purchased products from well-known brands such as Apple, Dyson, and Sol de Janeiro, as well as from small businesses including TruSkin and Native Pet.

(With inputs from agencies.)